The Ravens could be on the verge of enjoying a breakout season from the most unlikely of expected sources.
John Jenkins hasn’t had the NFL career that guys dream about when they throw the football through the tire or begin their Pop Warner journey as youths. He has seen six NFL lockers since being called his name 82nd overall during the 2013 NFL Draft, and he has never been on a roster as good as this Baltimore Ravens squad.
Being taken during Round 3 of an NFL Draft is no doubt exciting. That means a prospect is forever known as a second-day star, but John hasn’t reaped the benefits and unimaginable wealth that often comes with a professional football career.
He’s hoping his recent invitation to Ravens camp can help him rewrite a few narratives. He’s in luck. He fills an immediate need and may have finally landed with an organization that can help him realize some untapped potential.
Perhaps this next step is unconventional or even unusual to mention at this early stage. Might 13 be his lucky number? Might this coming campaign finally allow him the breakout he has so desperately sought?
John Jenkins’ late addition might be a blessing in disguise
It’s impossible to tell John Jenkins’ story without mentioning he wasn’t part of Baltimore’s original plans for 2025. Michael Pierce retired on March 12, and that created a need for another solid nose tackle. The Ravens weren’t in any rush, eventually signing Jenkins after the most recent NFL Draft on May 16.
The new guy couldn’t be any happier. He’ll partner with fourth-year interior defensive lineman Travis Jones, providing both veteran leadership and another big body in the trenches. Landing with the Ravens allows him the best opportunity he has had in a while (if ever) to utilize every tool in his toolbelt.
“The Ravens have a similar background to what I’m used to, where I feel like I could dominate in. I’m a nose tackle, so there ain’t too many get-off-the-rock defenses I can thrive in.”
Jenkins shared those words with Baltimore Ravens.com’s editorial director, Ryan Mink. Pierce only played 32% of the snaps last season, but in a limited and rotational role, Jenkins can do some big things.
“I’m happy to be here. I’m happy that this organization decided to pursue me and thought I was good enough to play for them and where we’re going to go, man.”
Big things are coming for the Ravens’ defense, both figuratively and literally. Jenkins stands at six feet three and tips the scales at 327 pounds. He is a space-eater who will allow his teammates to make some plays and, in the process, make a few of his own.